Remembering and Honoring the Fallen on Law Enforcement Memorial Day

Today across our nation, flags will fly at half-staff as we honor the service and ultimate sacrifices made by courageous men and women who have died while serving their communities. Since 1962, when President John F. Kennedy signed into Public Law a joint resolution of the 87th Congress designating May 15th as Peace Officer Memorial Day, this has been a day set aside to remember those no longer here and honor their willingness to do a dangerous job on behalf of others, on behalf of our society and for the benefit of our neighborhoods. The selfless service of those who raise their hand and take an Oath to Support and Defend our Constitution, to safeguard lives and property; to protect the weak against oppression and the peaceful against violence, despite the risk and danger, is reflective of their character and dedication to others.

 

Violent acts against law enforcement is increasing, with 136 officers shot in the line of duty and 38 separate ambush style attacks on America's police this year alone. And the Midwest is not immune to this tragic reality. In fact, in 2022 we lost 4 Kansas law enforcement officers, 12 in Missouri and 9 in Oklahoma.

 

Engraved into the marble wall of the National Law Enforcement Memorial in Washington D.C. are the names of Cherokee County lawmen Deputy John Crawford, Baxter Springs Chief of Police John Moyer, Baxter Springs City Marshal C.M. Taylor, Baxter Springs City Marshal Henry Seaman, Columbus City Marshal David Gordon, Empire City Marshal Marion Thomas and Galena City Marshal Milford Parker.

Just as their names are forever etched in stone, so too should the honor and respect of the community they courageously served and died for.

 

May we always remember their service and honor their sacrifice.

 

God Bless,

Sheriff David M. Groves